After a successful first run in 2017, GKIDS and Fathom Events have opted to continue their partnership to bring another series of treasured anime classics to U.S. theaters with Studio Ghibli Fest 2018. Starting this month, fans will have fresh opportunities to soak up their favorite titles on the big screen, along with some special surprises exclusive to the screening events.
“We were overjoyed with the passionate response to last year’s festival,” said GKIDS CEO Eric Beckman. “The artistry, wonder, and excitement of Studio Ghibli is best experienced in movie theaters, and we are thrilled to be working together again with Fathom Events to bring these movies to fans nationwide.”
The Studio Ghibli Fest 2018 kicks off with Ponyo, marking the Hayao Miyazaki film’s 10th anniversary with screenings March 25, 26 and 28. The lineup will continue through the year with The Cat Returns (Hiroyuki Morita, 2002) Apr. 22, 23 & 25; Porco Rosso (Miyazaki, 1992) May 20, 21 & 23; Pom Poko (Isao Takahata, 1994) June 17, 18 & 20; Princess Mononoke (Miyazaki, 1997) July 22, 23 & 25; Grave of the Fireflies 30th Anniversary (Takahata) Aug. 12, 13 & 15; My Neighbor Totoro 30th Anniversary (Miyazaki) Sept. 20, Oct. 1 & 3; Spirited Away (Miyazaki, 2001) Oct. 28, 29 & 30; and Castle in the Sky (Miyazaki, 1986) Nov. 18, 19 & 20.
Keep tabs on the 2018 slate at online here. Tickets will be available through www.ghiblifest.com, www.fathomevents.com and through participating theaters.
In other Ghibli news, VIZ Media has announced the impending release of a new hardcover edition of The Art of The Secret World of Arrietty, due out March 6. The latest addition to the publisher’s Studio Ghibli Library collection is a vividly illusrated ode to the creative brilliance behind the 2010 film.
“The Art of The Secret World of Arrietty features hundreds of character and production sketches as well as insights from director Hiromasa Yonebayashi and other key creators involved with the film,” says Masumi Washington, Editor. “We invite readers to dive deeper into The Secret World of Arrietty with this beautiful hardcover release.”
